Education
Sector
Education
Value
£13.6m
Region
Wales
Status
In progress
Delivery Team
Background
Background
Aberystwyth University is refurbishing and redeveloping the historic Neuadd Pantycelyn student halls of residence, which is one of Wales’ oldest and unique university accommodation blocks.
Once the vital project has completed, the Grade II listed building will provide 196 modern en-suite and fit-for-the-future student bedrooms and communal facilities, along with public social spaces, which will be used by both students and the local community.
Having worked with the university on previous projects, Perfect Circle was able to offer both its extensive knowledge of the educational establishment, its methods and procurement practices to ensure early appointment of the contractor, which has also contributed to meeting the university’s strict timescales.
Requirements
Due to the university’s tight timescales, Perfect Circle was appointed via Scape Group’s Built Environment Consultancy Services (BECS) framework, which offers the most efficient route to market for public sector built environment projects.
Challenges
Neuadd Pantycelyn student halls of residence has not been regularly maintained over the years. Because of this, Perfect Circle has been working to ensure that existing issues with the building envelope are addressed appropriately so that the internal refurbishment and remodelling is not impacted.
For example, 96% of the existing circa 400 sash windows had high moisture content and traces of lead paint. This resulted in recommendation for the windows to be replaced, which in turn presented issues with Cadw, which works to protect historic buildings and structures in Wales, and planning authorities.
Projected outcomes
Neuadd Pantycelyn has a long and distinguished history, with generations of alumni having fond memories of their time at the university accommodation.
The refurbishment project will bring real social value to the community as it will preserve and update the iconic building, which was originally opened in 1951, for both the university and Welsh speaking community.
It will also provide a unique addition and offer a modern new home for future generations of students, complete with first-class facilities.
The first cohort of students is expected to move into the refurbished building in September 2020.
Additional services provided:
Quantity Surveying
